July 24, 1924 - May 05, 2021
Mary Rose Molles, born July 24, 1924 passed away at the age of 96 on May 5th, 2021 after a long battle with dementia. She was the only child born to Abel and Maria Polonio, both originally from Portugal. They came to the United States in the 1920's and purchased 70 acres of grapes on West Woodbridge Road. Mary had an 8th grade education and then proceeded to help on the ranch. She married Frank Molles, whose family was in the dairy business, in 1941, and continued the grape ranch after her mother passed away in 1952. The ranch grew to 300, which she worked on with her husband. Also, at the bar called Franks Place at the corner of Ray and Woodbridge Road. She was so proud to drive the grape gondolas to the winery every harvest. Mary enjoyed sewing in her earlier years and cooking the recipes brought over by her mother from Portugal. She also enjoyed fishing and crabbing with Frank as well as RVing with friends. She was proud to know that there is a 4th generation carrying on the ranch that her father started back in the day.
Mary is predeceased by her husband, Frank; and their dog, Ozzie. She is survived by her daughter, MaryAnn Molles; her son and daughter-in-law, Jim and Shelley Molles; her grandchildren, Amy and Jeff Molles; and nephew, Jerome Molles.
There will be no services due to Covid-19. Private entombment was May 14th 2021. She had a good run. A special thanks to the following: to Ramona Glasgow, for her friendship and help along the way, Hope Diaz for her friendship and for taking such good care of Mary, and Kenya Tolar for being her caregiver until the end.
If you so desire, donations can be made to PALS or Future Farmers of America in Mary's name.
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Molles family.